सिर्फ़ ज़ाहिर हो गया सरमाया-ए-ज़ेब-ओ-सफ़ा क्या तअ'ज्जुब है जो बातिन बा-सफ़ा मिलता नहीं
— Akbar Allahabadi
Meaning

When all the wealth of beauty and adornment has been spent solely on outward appearance, it is no wonder that the inner self is not found pure.

Explanation

The poet reflects on how we have poured all our care, wealth, and attention into crafting an attractive outward appearance. When the outer self claims all the grace and polish, it is hardly surprising that true purity of heart and spirit has vanished. It is a gentle yet profound critique of our superficial priorities, reminding us that inner sincerity cannot flourish when starved for the sake of mere display.

Interpretation note: meanings and explanations may be AI-assisted and should not replace a primary text or scholarly edition. See the editorial policy.

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